Workshops

ADC 2022 participants had the option of participating in half-day, expert-led workshops on Monday, October 24, held at Copperpenny Distilling Co. in North Vancouver.

The Art of Whisky Blending: Expert Guidance and Hands-on Experience

Led by Brendan Cook, Head of Spirit Creation at Driftwood Spirits, a former member of the Scotch Whisky Institute flavour panel, and a former collaborator of Master Blender Rachel Barrie at Brown-Forman, this workshop focused on optimizing blending programs for the long term. From selecting cask types and sizes, to wood-management techniques and entry proofs, this session provided participants the framework upon which to build the foundation for a solid maturation program. The workshop also addressed how to build a library of blending stocks, and the importance of finishing techniques and limited-edition releases to ensure repeat purchases.   (More photos…)

Distilling Microflora: How to Manage Yeast and Bacteria to Craft Distinctive and Unique Spirits

Three technical experts from Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits—Annick Mercier, Business Area Manager for Caribbean & North America, Distilled Spirits ,and technical sales managers Haley Churchill and Mitch Codd—closed out the day by providing distillers can insights on yeast strains and how to select the best ones for crafting specific spirits, and about how and when to use bacteria advantageously. The workshop closed with a tasting session of various spirits, and a discussion of how distillery processes impacted the flavours of the final product.